Epic Road Trip: 10 Roadside Attractions in the U.S. You Don’t Want to Miss

Photo of author

By Samantha Collins

Taking a road trip is one of the best ways to see new places. Embarking on a cross-country journey across the United States is an unforgettable lifetime trip. Not only will you be enthralled by the major attractions, but the less poignant experiences will also stick in your memory. Here are some epic roadside attractions to add to your list of sights to see during your epic United States road trip.

1. Cadillac Ranch: Amarillo, Texas

AMARILLO, TEXAS, USA - DEC. 2013: Cadillac Ranch is a public art installation and sculpture in Texas, U.S. created in 1974 by Chip Lord, Hudson Marquez and Doug Michels, of the art group Ant Farm.
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Just outside of Amarillo, Texas, the Cadillac Ranch is a public art installation that is unique, to say the least. It features ten Cadillacs buried nose-first in the ground, and they’re all adorned with unique graffiti.

One of the cool things about Cadillac Ranch is that it’s not only about sightseeing. In fact, it’s an interactive experience, as visitors are invited to bring along their own spray paint and add to the graffiti.

2. Route 66

Route 66
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Route 66 is absolutely iconic – and for good reason! The drive offers a nostalgic journey through the heart of America, with plenty of quirky roadside stops along the way that are totally worth your time. A few of these stops include the Blue Whale of Catoosa, the Midpoint Café, and the Wigwam Motel, and don’t forget ticking Route 66 off your bucket list is an epic thing to be able to do.

3. “The Thing”: Dragoon, Arizona

Dragoon Mountains, Arizona
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Shrouded in mystery, you’ll see plenty of billboards and signs throughout the Arizonan desert that ask, “What is The Thing?” In fact, this curious attraction is a quirky museum that features a variety of odd and unexplained exhibits that’ll keep wondering long after you leave.

4. The World’s Largest Ball of Twine: Cawker City, Kansas

Cawker City, KS / USA - September 28, 2015: The world's largest ball of sisal twine sits proudly under a protective canopy in Cawker City, KS.
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Located in America’s south – Kansas, to be precise – you’ll find the world’s largest ball of twine. This unusual attraction is quite incredible, and it’s a testament to the dedication of a single individual who started rolling twine back in 1953.

Visitors are allowed to add their own piece of twin, encouraging the odd legend to continue and allowing you to leave your mark.

5. The Corn Palace: Mitchell, South Dakota

Mitchell, South Dakota - 2016: The Corn Palace, commonly advertised as The World's Only Corn Palace and the Mitchell Corn Palace. Decorated with corn in 2016 with the theme "Rock of Ages."
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Boasting a slightly peculiar name, the Corn Palace is an architectural marvel located in Mitchell, South Dakota. Its exterior is completely covered in corn and other types of grains, creating an ever-changing (and unique) mural. This attraction is a great and unique example of agri-tourism.

6. Carhenge: Alliance, Nebraska

ALLIANCE, NE, USA - MAY 29, 2017: Carhenge - famous car sculpture created by Jim Reinders, a modern replica of England's Stonehenge using old cars
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Based on the famous Stonehenge located near Surrey in England, Carhenge is a unique sculpture made entirely from vintage cars. Arranged in a circle, this automotive wonder is a tribute to the classic American love affair with cars, and it offers visitors a great photo opportunity.

7. Wall Drug: Wall, South Dakota

WALL, SOUTH DAKOTA, CIRCA OCTOBER 2015. From its humble beginning as a small drug store, Wall Drug has grown into an international tourist attraction for an otherwise small town in rural South Dakota.
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Only in America will you find a pharmacy-turned-museum, and this one is located in Wall, South Dakota. Wall Drug, as it’s become known, is something you simply have to see for yourself. It offers free ice water and unique shopping opportunities, making it a place you just have to stop at if you’re passing through.

8. Salvation Mountain: Niland, California

Niland, California - August 11 2014: Salvation Mountain is Leonard's tribute to God and his gift to the world with its simple yet powerful message - God Is Love.
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Salvation Mountain is an artistic and spiritual masterpiece that has become a symbol of hope and love for many people. It’s an artistic and spiritual masterpiece, and it’s a technicolor mountain covered in religious messages and folk art. It was created by Leonard Knight over many decades, and it truly is an incredible sight to behold!

9. The Grand Canyon, Arizona

Sunset moment at Horseshoe bend Grand Canyon National Park. Colorado River. famous view point.
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Possibly the most obvious tourist attraction in the country, the Grand Canyon is also a really popular stop on US cross-country road trips. This natural attraction is awe-inspiring – whether you just gaze out at the views or stop and go for a hike. The natural beauty of Arizona’s Grand Canyon is nothing short of breathtaking.

10. International UFO Museum and Research Center: Roswell, New Mexico

New Mexico, NOV 24 2022 - Exterior view of the International UFO Museum and Research Center and Gift Shop
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

If you’re into all things weird and wonderful – or even if you’re not – the International UFO Museum and Research Center is an absolute must. Located in Roswell, New Mexico, this UFO center offers a deep dive into the famous 1947 UFO incident allowing visitors to learn about extraterrestrial mysteries and the facts that surround them.

Full of interesting information and things to see, the International UFO Museum and Research Center is a fascinating stop for both conspiracy theorists and history buffs alike.

Sunset Sensations: 10 Secret Spots to Catch the World’s Most Mind-Blowing Dusk Displays

There’s just something incredible about watching the sunset – whether you’re enjoying a peaceful moment on your own, a special outing with your best mates, or a romantic evening with your partner. Enjoying the sun setting out in the distance has the ability to put things into perspective. It has a way of making you realize how insignificant we really are but in the best way possible. Here are 10 secret spots to watch the sunset around the world.

Sunset Sensations: 10 Secret Spots to Catch the World’s Most Mind-Blowing Dusk Displays

17 Irresistible Destinations Travelers Can’t Get Enough Of

Have you ever been to a place and had to go back for round two? We know what that feels like, so we’ve curated this list of 17 places that will make you feel that traveler’s itch to return for more! Each of these destinations holds a grasp on travelers that has them visiting over and over. From outstanding natural beauty to impactful history, these places are guaranteed to have you coming back for more with their unique qualities and culture.

17 Irresistible Destinations Travelers Can’t Get Enough Of

Want To Test How Angry You Can Get? Just Visit These 11 Worst Airports in the United States

Look, I get it. Airports are generally crowded and really noisy, and that’s enough to irritate most of us. That’s understandable, even for me. But according to people online, there are just some airports bound to anger us in the worst place possible. It’s just a matter of how you manage not to lose your composure should anything stressful happen to you in these places.

Want To Test How Angry You Can Get? Just Visit These 11 Worst Airports in the United States

Land of Enchantment: 11 Uncharted U.S. Paradises Awaiting Your Discovery

There’s nothing quite like discovering that you don’t need to travel abroad to see jaw-dropping landscapes. Without spending ridiculous amounts of money or traveling on abhorrently long flights, you can take a road trip or grab a quick flight to one of these ten truly fascinating places you won’t believe are in the United States!

Land of Enchantment: 11 Uncharted U.S. Paradises Awaiting Your Discovery

Leave a Comment